Accident Details
A private pilot was operating a single-engine experimental airplane. During the initial climb after takeoff, the engine experienced a complete loss of power. The pilot successfully restarted the engine and elected to return to the airport for landing. Shortly after the restart, the engine again lost all power, and subsequent restart attempts were unsuccessful.
Pilot Actions
Faced with a forced landing scenario, the pilot chose to land in an area of small trees instead of an alternative forced landing site in a lake. During the landing, the airplane sustained substantial damage and came to rest upright in a nose-down attitude. The pilot and passenger received minor injuries.
Fueling Information
According to a written statement from the passenger, the airplane was fueled before takeoff using several hand-carried gas cans that the pilot brought to the airport. The owner and builder of the airplane reported that the aircraft regularly used auto gas and that water in the fuel was common.
Investigation Outcome
The investigation into the loss of engine power could not determine the cause. No specific factor was identified as the reason for the two power loss events.